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Reference

Abstract

Background: Parabens are widely used as antimicrobial preservatives in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and in food and beverage processing.

Objectives: To assess exposure to methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl parabens in a representative sample of persons aged 6 years and older in the U.S. general population from the 2005—2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

Conclusions: The general U.S. population was exposed to several parabens during 2005–2006. Differences in the urinary concentrations of methyl and propyl parabens by sex and race/ethnicity likely reflect the use of personal care products containing these compounds.